United News of Bangladesh

The decision by the United States to reduce its reciprocal tariff rate for Bangladesh from 35% to 20% marks a significant step towards strengthening bilateral trade relations, officials here said, stressing the need for having an effective diversified, competitive and tolerant trade strategy. "Looking ahead, ensuring internal stability and proactive governmental measures will be key in maintaining competitiveness and fostering future growth," former director of Bangladesh Garment Manufactures and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Mohiuddin Rubel told UNB on Friday. Rubel, also Additional Managing Director, Denim Expert Ltd and Managing Director, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange Ltd, said ptimism prevails for Bangladesh's trajectory, poised for continued advancement and resilience in the evolving economic landscape. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has described the latest US decision as a "decisive diplomatic victory" and proudly congratulated the Bangladesh tariff negotiators on securing a landmark trade deal with the United States. "The future of Bangladesh is undeniably bright. Today’s success stands as a powerful testament to the nation’s resilience and its bold vision for a stronger economy tomorrow," he said in an immediate reaction after the successful tariff negotiations with the United States. By reducing the tariff to 20%, 17 points lower than anticipated, he said their negotiators have demonstrated remarkable strategic skills and unwavering commitment to safeguarding and advancing Bangladesh’s economic interests. Prof Yunus said they have been working relentlessly since February and navigated successfully through a complex negotiating process involving tariff, non-tariff and national security matters. "The agreement they negotiated preserves our comparative advantage, enhaces our access to the world's largest consumer market and safeguards our core national interests," he said in his message shared by Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. This achievement not only underscores Bangladesh’s rising strength on the global stage but also opens the door to greater opportunities, accelerated growth and lasting prosperity, Prof Yunus said. Describing it as an "exciting development" in trade dynamics, Rubel said Bangladesh has adjusted its reciprocal tariff to 20%, positioning itself competitively against countries like Pakistan, Cambodia and Vietnam. Notably, compared to India and China, which have higher tariffs, this move sets Bangladesh apart, potentially attracting business from China, the exporter thinks. Despite potential short-term impacts on US sales due to increased retail prices, Rubel said, historical resilience suggests Bangladesh is primed for a long-term success. Reflecting on the post-COVID economic landscape, Bangladesh's steadfast growth amidst global challenges is commendable. "While short-term growth may vary amid global economic shifts, Bangladesh's strategic positioning and historical performance bode well for sustained progress," Rubel said. An Opportunity and A Warning Executive Director, South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM) Selim Raihan said while this reduction in the US countervailing duty rate is encouraging, it does not create a room for complacency or create room for complacency; rather, it is an opportunity and a warning at the same time. Trump's tariffs: Third and probably last round of talks underway in Washington "Bangladesh needs to take effective steps now to establish a diversified, competitive and tolerant trade strategy," he said. The recent reduction in the US reciprocal tariff rate for Bangladesh, from 35% to 20%, is a welcome development for the country’s export sector, said the economist. "This revision comes as part of a broader recalibration of the United States' reciprocal tariff framework, which appears to apply to many of its trading partners," Raihan said. For instance, Sri Lanka’s rate has been lowered to 20% (from 30%), and Pakistan’s to 19% (from 29%). Bangladesh's other competitors like Vietnam and India face tariff rates of 20% and 25% respectively. In this context, Bangladesh’s new tariff rate now aligns more closely with those of its key competitors in the US market, suggesting a reduced risk of trade diversion and a lower likelihood of significant disruption to its exports, particularly in the readymade garments sector. A notable element of uncertainty, however, remains in the global trade landscape: the reciprocal tariff rate for China is yet to be finalised, Raihan said. Given China’s central role in global manufacturing and its competitive overlap with Bangladesh in several export categories, the eventual US decision on China’s tariff rate will be pivotal in shaping future patterns of global trade. "If China is subject to significantly higher tariffs, Bangladesh and other South and Southeast Asian exporters may see a shift in demand in their favour. Conversely, a more favorable rate for China could intensify competition," said the economist. As such, the final terms for China will be critical in determining how trade flows realign in the months ahead, he said. A Triumph for Interim Govt’s Approach Former US diplomat Jon Danilowicz said the White House announcement of a 20% tariff rate for Bangladesh represents a "triumph" for the interim government’s approach to negotiations. Bangladesh may get reduced tariffs on exports to USA: Finance Adviser Further details of the bilateral agreement are likely forthcoming, he said. Over the past four months, Danilowicz said the interim government and its lead negotiator, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, faced relentless attacks from multiple corners. He said this despite the steady progress Bangladesh had made in strengthening the bilateral relationship since President Trump’s inauguration. "Now that the negotiations have concluded with a positive result for both Bangladesh and the United States, I hope these critics are prepared to admit their errors," said the former US diplomat who served in Dhaka in the past. With progress on the July Charter, an election date set to be announced, and positive news on the tariffs, he observed that this has been a good week for those who have Bangladesh’s best interests at heart. Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan said from domestic price stability to successful tariff negotiations with the US, Commerce Advisor Sk Bashir Uddin has proved his mettle, to the dismay of naysayers. We Negotiated Carefully “We negotiated carefully to ensure that our commitments aligned with our national interests and capacity,” said Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh’s lead negotiator. “Protecting our apparel industry was a top priority, but we also focused our purchase commitments on US agricultural products. This supports our food security goals and fosters goodwill with U.S. farming states," he said. “We’ve also preserved our global competitiveness and opened up new opportunities to access the world's largest consumer market” Dr Rahman added. The government has placed an order to purchase 25 aircraft from Boeing with a plan to increase wheat and soybean import from the United States. “We remain engaged with the US. We have placed an order for purchasing 25 aircraft from Boeing. India and Vietnam each placed an order for 100 aircraft while Indonesia has placed an order for 50 aircraft from Boeing,” Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman told reporters on July 27. He said Bangladesh needs some aircraft within the next couple of years and hopes to get a few as national carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines needs to expand its fleet. US Chargé d’ Affaires meets Fakhrul, discusses tariffs, election For weeks, President Donald Trump was promising the world economy would change on Friday with his new tariffs in place. It was an ironclad deadline, administration officials assured the public. But when Trump signed the order Thursday night imposing new tariffs on 68 countries and the European Union, the start date of the punishing import taxes was pushed back seven days so that the tariff schedule could be updated. The change, according to AP, while potentially welcome news to countries that had not yet reached a deal with the US - injected a new dose of uncertainty for consumers and businesses still wondering what’s going to happen and when.

South Korea has,expressed keen interest in strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties with Bangladesh, particularly in the textile and garment sectors. Park Young-sik, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh, held a meeting with Mahmud Hasan Khan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral trade and investment issues. During the meeting, the BGMEA president  highlighted Bangladesh’s growing potential as a destination for South Korean exports of man-made fibress, textile machinery, chemical dyes, and other raw materials. He also noted that South Korea is a promising market for Bangladeshi apparel exports, offering significant opportunities for mutually beneficial trade. President Mahmud Hasan Khan expressed appreciation for South Korea’s historical support in the development of Bangladesh’s garment industry, especially in technical assistance and workforce training during its formative years. He sought the ambassador’s support in expanding Bangladesh’s apparel exports to South Korea and attracting Korean investment in non-textile sectors within Bangladesh. The BGMEA leadership also emphasised the need for enhanced market intelligence sharing and stronger business-to-business connectivity between Korean and Bangladeshi enterprises to deepen economic cooperation. New Saudi Ambassador presents credentials to President Shahabuddin  The ambassador underscored the importance of further aligning Bangladesh’s Export Processing Zones (EPZ) Act 2019 with the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 to create a more conducive environment for foreign investors. He also highlighted the need to improve labor productivity and the operational efficiency of the Chattogram port, which are key to facilitating smoother trade operations. Both parties expressed optimism that the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Bangladesh and South Korea would significantly benefit both countries by fostering deeper economic integration. BGMEA president Mahmud thanked the South Korean government for its continued support and expressed confidence that bilateral relations will continue to strengthen in the coming years. Present during the meeting from BGMEA were Vice President Md. Shehab Udduza Chowdhury, Director, Faisal Samad, and Member Israfil Atique. The Ambassador was accompanied by Kim Jeong ki, Consul at the Korean Embassy in Dhaka, and Noh Chy Woo, Country Head, Spandex Performance Unit and Spandex Plant, Hyosung TNC Corporation (Bangladesh Liaison Office).

Bangladesh Army has underscored its commitment to maintaining proper law and order in industrial areas to ensure the continued production of the garment industry since it's the lifelines of the economy. GOC of the 9th Infantry Division Major General Md. Moin Khan said this during a view exchange meeting on Tuesday between the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Board and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 9th Infantry Division and Area Commander, Savar Area, of the Bangladesh Army. The discussion at BGMEA Complex in Uttara focused on the security of garment factories, particularly issues related to law and order. BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan led the BGMEA delegation, while Major General Md. Moin Khan of the 9th Infantry Division, led the army's representation. The GOC further stated that they are considering implementing a new method to solve the jhoot (fabric scraps) problem in the garment sector, suggesting that establishing an auction house for jhut could alleviate this issue for factories. He expressed hope that entrepreneurs would provide accurate information to assist the army in maintaining stable law and order in the industrial sector. He also urged BGMEA to encourage entrepreneurs to ensure timely payment of wages and benefits. Maj Gen Khan reassured business owners that the Bangladesh Army stands with the industry in any unforeseen external incidents that could harm factories. WRAP and BGMEA to bolster partnership for ethical apparel production BGMEA President Hasan praised the Bangladesh Army for its patience and prudence in standing by the people during the critical post-student uprising period, and for their involvement in national reconstruction and economic recovery. He specifically highlighted the army-led joint forces' cooperation in ensuring industrial security, which enabled the garment industry to survive a catastrophic situation. On behalf of the garment industry, he extended sincere gratitude and thanks to the Bangladesh Army for their continued support. Among those present at the meeting were BGMEA Senior Vice President Enamul Haq Khan (Bablu), Vice President Md. Rezwan Selim, Vice President (Finance) Mizanur Rahman, Vice President Md. Shihab Uddoja Chowdhury, and several directors. Also in attendance were the Commander of the 81st Infantry Brigade, Bangladesh Army, Commander of the 9th Artillery Brigade, Md. Abul Kalam Siddique, DIG (Operation & Crime), Industrial Police; Md. Israel Howlader, DIG (Administration & Crime), Industrial Police; and representatives from DGFI and NSI. Various chairmen and managing directors of garment factories also participated in the discussion. The meeting also discussed the possibility of forming a confederation of various labor federations. Entrepreneurs at the meeting stated that the industry is being held hostage by "jhoot terrorism" (terrorism related to leftover fabric scraps). They explained that terrorist groups dominating the jhoot sector are forming juvenile gangs, creating an unstable environment in industrial areas, and harassing both factory owners and workers. Garment entrepreneurs sought the army's cooperation in resolving these issues.

Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) and the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) have agreed to strengthen their long-standing partnership to promote ethical and sustainable production within Bangladesh's apparel sector. This commitment emerged from a courtesy meeting today between Kamrun Nahar, WRAP's Head of Operations for Bangladesh and Pakistan, and Mahmud Hasan Khan, President of BGMEA, at the BGMEA office in Uttara. During the discussion, BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan emphasized the historical collaboration between the two organizations in advancing ethical and sustainable practices, noting that further strengthening this partnership would be beneficial for the Bangladeshi apparel industry. BGMEA seeks ministry, loan ease, bond audit reform for export growth He specifically requested WRAP to take the initiative in engaging with apparel brands to develop a unified code of conduct for the industry. Kamrun Nahar confirmed that WRAP's efforts in this regard are ongoing. The meeting also delved into various aspects of WRAP's audits.  Kamrun Nahar urged the BGMEA to play a more active role in WRAP's training courses for its members.  Discussions also covered the full implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between BGMEA and WRAP in 2022, exploring potential areas of cooperation, and updating audit standards to be more current. A key point of discussion was the need for exemptions from audit requirements regarding 30% open roof space in factory buildings, which currently prevents factories from installing rooftop solar panels, and obligations concerning shared factory buildings. President Khan requested WRAP to share the comprehensive audit findings of Bangladeshi apparel factories with BGMEA.  He stated this information would assist in policy formulation for the industry and further solidify Bangladesh's position as a preferred global hub for ethical production. The meeting, held on July 7, also saw the presence of BGMEA Director Nafis-ud-Doula and WRAP's Manager of Administrative Operations, Tanjina Afrin.    

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Monday sought an apparel ministry, easing loan classification and bond audit policy to expand apparel export to US $100 billion goal. Top leaders of the apparel sector are actively seeking government support to resolve the pressing challenges facing the pivotal apparel sector and to pave a way for its continued expansion. The BGMEA placed the demand to the government during a meeting with Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of both the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and the Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (BEZA), held at the BIDA office. BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan led the apparel sector at the meeting. During the meeting, the BGMEA President highlighted the substantial hurdles currently affecting the industry. “Global geopolitical instability, retaliatory tariffs imposed by the United States, cancellation of trans-shipment by India, high bank interest rates, and frequent increases in gas and electricity prices have created major challenges for the apparel industry,” he said. Khan emphasised the critical need for BIDA's cooperation to overcome these challenges and ensure the industry's expansion. Won't take any decision that might be conflicting with national interests: Bida Chief The BGMEA delegation, which included Vice President (Finance) Mizanur Rahman, Vice President Barrister Vidia Amrit Khan, and Director Samiha Azim. From BIDA and BEZA, Executive Member (Investment Ecosystem) Md Mokhlesur Rahman (Additional Secretary) and BEZA Executive Member Saleh Ahmed (Additional Secretary) were also present at the meeting. BGMEA’s Proposals BGMEA placed a series of proposals before the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), aiming to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the country’s apparel industry. At the heart of the proposals is the plan to establish an integrated garment industrial zone in Chattogram. The BGMEA President called for the consolidation of scattered small and medium-sized factories into a designated industrial area. To facilitate this, he urged BIDA and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) to allocate a plot of land to BGMEA at a symbolic price. Stressing the importance of environmentally responsible production, the association called for a clear roadmap along with technological and financial assistance to encourage the installation of solar panels in factories. The issue of financial policy and regulatory burden also came under focus. BGMEA leaders requested Bangladesh Bank to extend the current loan classification grace period from three to six months, citing difficulties faced by entrepreneurs in repaying installments during financial crises. They also described the bond audit process as burdensome and obstructive to export operations. To streamline and ensure transparency, BGMEA proposed outsourcing bond audits to 20 designated institutions. Another significant proposal was the formation of a dedicated Ministry of Textiles and Apparel, separating the industry from the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Commerce. Top global port operators tapped to boost Bangladesh’s infrastructure: BIDA chief BGMEA argued that such a move would ensure focused policy support and sectoral growth. In response, BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun acknowledged the critical role of the apparel sector in the national economy, and assured that BIDA would continue to extend all necessary support and work closely with the private sector to drive further development in the industry.  

Newly elected president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu has announced to reduce members' subscription fee by 25 percent. He made the commitment while taking over the charge at a ceremony on Monday at BGMEA building in Uttara. Officially, Babu took the charge from BGMEA administrator Anwar Hossain. Others who were installed at the event included First Vice President Selim Rahman, Senior Vice President Enamul Haque Khan, Vice President Md. Md. Rezwan Selim, Vice President (Finance), Mizanur Rahman, Vice President, Bhidia Amrit Khan, Vice President Md. Shihab Uddoza Chowdhury and Vice President Mohammad Rafiq Chowdhury took over their charges. Mahmud Hasan, seven others elected BGMEA president and VPs for 2025-27 Babu made promises to improve service of the organisation to its members including reducing subscription fee by 25 percent from July 2025. The new president also announced to work with all members, different panels members and leaders along with former presidents as a family of the garment sector, forgetting division. Babu called BGMEA members to work for USD $100 billion export goal from garment sector overcoming global and domestic challenges. He also urged the government to halt SDG graduation, simplify custom's clearance, and ease of doing business. The BGMEA president gave commitment to establish a transparent BGMEA and online platform to show service information to its members. The outgoing administrator gave a statement on earnings and expenditures during his tenure in the BGMEA. In the charge handover ceremony, former presidents of BGMEA Anisur Rahman Sinha, Rubana Hoque, Faruque Hassan, Moniruzzaman, Fazlur Rahman, Rafiqul Islam also spoke. The BGMEA elections 2025-27 were completed on May 31. In continuation of this, the election of new office bearers for the term 2025-27 at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara. Eight candidates submitted their nominations for the eight office bearer posts in the election, and the board verified them. Later, the final list was published, according to a release signed by Secretary Faizur Rahman. Elected govt essential to ensure investors’ security: BGMEA President As there were no rival candidates, and no party appealed against the eight final list, the election board declared the candidates who submitted their nominations elected as office bearers. The results were announced by the Chairman of the BGMEA Election Board, former Chairman of Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC), Mohammad Iqbal. He was accompanied by Election Board member Syed Afzal Hasan Uddin and former DCCI president Ashraf Ahmed.

The Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceuticals Industries (BAPI) views the proposed extension and enhancement of duty and tax exemptions on the import of raw materials for the pharmaceutical sector in the FY2025-26 budget as a positive move.  The association in a press release said such decisions by the government will further strengthen the country's pharmaceutical industry. The proposed duty exemptions for importing raw materials used in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) will significantly help develop the API industry, it said.  BAPI also expresses hope that the pharmaceutical sector, with some additional incentives, can emerge not only as a key supplier for the domestic market but also as a major export-oriented industry. One additional issue the association highlighted is the current high duty on sandwich panels and laboratory furniture used in pharmaceutical investments. Previously, the duty rate was only 1%, but it has since increased significantly.  BAPI urges the relevant government authorities to address this matter and restore the previous low-duty rate for panels, particularly for new pharmaceutical projects. BAPI appreciates the government's commendable initiatives in this year’s budget.  However, it emphasizes that the successful implementation of these initiatives depends on the commitment and integrity of the officials at the National Board of Revenue and other relevant authorities. Alongside the proposed benefits, BAPI requests that the following points also be considered and included in the final budget: 1. Corporate Tax for Non-Listed Companies: The minimum corporate tax rate for non-listed companies was 25% in the previous fiscal year. However, it has been increased to 27.5% in the proposed budget. Given that most pharmaceutical companies are already struggling due to rising costs, this increase will impose an additional burden.BAPI urges the government to retain the previous 25% tax rate. 2. Personal Income Tax Threshold: The proposed budget does not raise the tax-free threshold for individuals, and some changes in conditions will result in increased tax for employees in the sector. This will effectively reduce their real income. BAPI requests the government to reconsider this matter. 3 Minimum Corporate Tax on Gross Turnover: The proposed budget sets a minimum corporate tax of 1% on gross turnover, up from the previous 0.6%. As many pharmaceutical companies are currently struggling to generate profits, this increase will severely impact their operational capacity. Companies that are not making profits will have to pay this tax from their capital, which is unjustifiable. BAPI strongly appeals to revert the minimum tax rate to its previous level.  

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Wednesday expressed deepest condolence at the passing of Filippo Poggi, country sourcing controller of Primark, and honoured his memory at a commemorative event held at the BGMEA premises. The event was attended by Bangladeshi suppliers, family members, friends, BGMEA members, Primark officials, and well-wishers who came together to pay tribute to Filippo's legacy and lasting impact on Bangladesh’s garment sector, according to a press release. They showed respect to Filippo by placing wreaths on the mortal remains. Speaking on behalf of BGMEA, Administrator Anwar Hossain paid  tribute to Filippo, describing him as a wonderful individual who played a pivotal role in strengthening ties between Primark and Bangladesh’s garment industry. BGMEA election underway; Forum and Sammilito Parishad leaders hopeful of victory “Filippo was a wonderful person—kind, warm, and full of life. I still remember our last meeting at the BGMEA office just a month ago. It is still hard to believe that Filippo is no longer with us. His support and efforts helped build a strong and lasting relationship between Primark and our industry,” said Anwar. Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, president-elect of BGMEA, said “With Filippo’s passing, we have lost a genuine friend of Bangladesh’s RMG sector. He understood our challenges, believed in our potential, and worked tirelessly to foster collaboration. His absence will be deeply felt across the industry.” Garment sector resumes regular production after Eid: BGMEA Ms. Fay, wife of Filippo, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the BGMEA and the entire garment community, saying, “I'm amazed to see the overwhelming love shown by all to Filippo. This reflects Filippo’s strong relationship with the people he worked with in Bangladesh's RMG sector.” The administrator presented a condolence letter to Ms. Fay on behalf of BGMEA and its members. As a tribute to the memory of Filippo, a sapling was planted on the BGMEA premises. The BGMEA mourns the loss of a valued friend and partner and extends its deepest condolences to Filippo's family, colleagues, and loved ones.

A high-level consultation meeting on “Towards Alignment: Consultation for a Single Monitoring and Compliance System’ was held at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara on Tuesday. The event was jointly organized by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA). The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE), and major global brands such as M&S, GAP, Inditex, and Li & Fung, alongside members of BGMEA and BKMEA. Discussions centered around the persistence challenge of overlapping audits and compliance requirements in the RMG and textile sector. The participants highlighted how this leads to audit fatigue, duplication of efforts, and inefficient resource use. This consultation focused on discussing ways to establish a common platform to streamline monitoring and compliance practices for enhanced sector-wide efficiency and accountability. Bangladesh Bank holds "Granular Data Collection and Analysis" workshop for bank officials The session was chaired by Md. Anwar Hossain, Administrator, BGMEA. ANM Saifuddin, Supporting Committee Member, BGMEA, moderated the discussion, while Fazlee Ehsan Shamim, Executive President, BKMEA, also spoke at the meeting. Tuomo Poutiainen, Country Director of ILO Bangladesh, stressed the importance of developing a credible and inclusive national system. He highlighted the need for trust-building and institutional collaboration to ensure the system’s success and sustainability. In his remarks, BGMEA Administrator Md. Anwar Hossain underscored the need for addressing fragmentation in audits to minimize fatigue and highlighted the importance of a common platform of compliance system with a credible and internationally accepted unified code of conduct for social and technical audits. He emphasized this would benefit all stakeholders — buyers, manufacturers, and workers alike. Anwar Hossain urged the ILO to take the lead in facilitating its development. All brand representatives and stakeholders present expressed support for the initiative. Key outcomes from the consultation include: BGMEA and BKMEA will jointly develop a concept paper outlining the scope, rationale, and framework of a unified monitoring and compliance system.

A former president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Wednesday urged the government to operate ‘Chittagong Port’ for 24 hours a day for smooth export-import activities. He said that the ready-made garment (RMG) export was happened due to the recent strike of the revenue board officials. Kazi Muniruzzaman, former president of BGMEA, said this while speaking at the unveiling of the manifesto of Sammilito Parishad, a platform contesting in the upcoming election of BGMEA. He also warned that if port operations are not maintained 24 hours a day, it will create complications in paying workers' salaries and bonuses before Eid-ul-Adha. "If goods are not delivered on time, payments will not come from buyers, making it impossible to pay workers' salaries and bonuses," Muniruzzaman stated. Customs houses to remain open during holidays to support RMG exports ahead of Eid "In this situation, if the port is not kept open 24 hours, the owners will not be able to bear that responsibility,” he pointed out. He emphasised the need to ensure uninterrupted port activities before Eid for the sake of the workers and urged the government to intervene swiftly. Md. Abul Kalam, panel leader of the Sammilito Parishad, presented a 12-point election manifesto, highlighting the need for timely, courageous, and experienced leadership to achieve the US$100 billion export dream for the ready-made garment industry. Kalam stated that the Sammilito Parishad's goal is to build a smart, sustainable, and future-oriented garment industry. To this end, they plan to form an 'SME Support Cell' for small and medium-sized factories, which will provide policy, financial, and legal assistance.  Furthermore, they will emphasise entry into the Middle East, Africa, and South America to diversify export markets.  Reducing over-reliance on Europe and America to mitigate global trade risks is also a key objective of the grouping. The council also called for seasonal incentives to ensure electricity and gas supply to the industry.  They also outlined plans for training in artificial intelligence, IoT, ERP, and ESG for workers and managers to prepare for 4th industrial revolution, and the establishment of a 'Green Funding Desk' for green financing.  RMG workers stage protest at Kakrail demanding arrears, Eid bonus For BGMEA members, they intend to launch an 'EPIC' one-stop support centre, where new entrepreneurs, women leaders, and SME enterprises will receive digital information and training services.    Additionally, to enhance the image of the garment industry in the global market, a 'Made in Bangladesh – Premium Edition' campaign will be launched to promote modern, sustainable, and high-quality products. Kalam affirmed that a mandatory monthly savings-based worker welfare fund would be established to protect workers in future crises. Simultaneously, he pledged to simplify compliance processes for SME factories by introducing a 'Unified Code of Conduct.' Faruque Hassan, former BGMEA president and chief coordinator of the Sammilito Parishad, highlighted their past achievements in leading the garment industry.  Economist Hasnat Alam also presented a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of the ready-made garment industry at the event.